In 1964, Hans Reelick began selling plants out of a two-car garage in downtown Bethel.

Today, Hollandia Nurseries and Gardens has become a landmark business that draws customers from throughout the region, with 21 lush acres off Old Hawleyville Road as well as 28 greenhouses and a wide assortment of locally grown flowers, shrubs, trees and vegetable plants.

And while the gardening industry has changed in the 50 years since the business first opened, Reelick said hard work, along with quality products and customer service, have kept customers coming back for generations.

"It's a very difficult business," Reelick said. "It's difficult to find good labor and it's a short season -- you have to do just about all your business in a short period of time."

Ken Kolwicz, a partner in the business who started with the nursery 47 years ago as a youngster, said unlike other garden centers that truck in their plants, Hollandia grows everything on site.

"We are still growers," he said. "Every plant, from flowers to trees, are grown here from seed to full maturity. That's the kind of quality you just can't find at other centers."

Reelick noted that while box stores have to sell most of the shipments that come in, regardless of quality, they can be more selective.

Laura Stucki, of Ridgefield, said a trip to Hollandia is more like going to a beautiful park than a nursery.

"I love strolling through the property," she said. "You never know what new discoveries you'll find when you turn a corner. They have things here I just can't find anywhere else."

Hollandia also offers full landscape services and design work as well as educational classes and seminars.

"We want to help educate people, from the beginning gardener to professional horticulturists," said Eugene Reelick, the second generation to help operate the business. "If someone is starting their first garden, we want them to have a successful and enjoyable experience. We don't want it to become a chore."

About 10 years ago, the Reelicks expanded the operation and opened Hollandia Gift and Garden on Stony Hill Road.

Reelick said the outpost provides the business more exposure and the space to offer more hardscape items including bird baths, fire pits, and water-garden elements.

Because the Stony Hill Road location is also paved, as opposed to the more rural landscape on Old Hawleyville Road, the sales floors can be transitioned easier for seasonal changes and holiday displays.

In honor of the anniversary, Hollandia planted more than 18,000 golden tulip bulbs to greet motorists as they drive through the Old Hawleyville area. The business is also offering 50 percent off select products each week throughout the season.

"I don't know where all the time has gone, but I love what I do," Hans Reelick said. "It's been a good run."